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HOCD: Myths and Realities

Written and clinically reviewed By Dr Elaine Ryan Chartered Psychologist specialising in OCD and anxiety disorders, with over 20 years’ clinical experience.

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Introduction

Homosexual obsessive-compulsive disorder (HOCD) is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in which a person experiences unwanted and intrusive thoughts about being gay or lesbian. These thoughts can cause significant distress and anxiety and can lead people to engage in compulsive behaviours in an attempt to reduce their anxiety.

Further reading about HOCD, please see my guide.

Myths about HOCD

There are many myths and misconceptions about HOCD. Some of the most common myths include:

Realities about HOCD

Here are some of the realities about HOCD:

  • HOCD is a very common form of OCD. It is estimated that up to 10% of people with OCD have HOCD.
  • HOCD can affect people of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations.
  • The symptoms of HOCD can vary from person to person. Some people may experience intrusive thoughts about being gay or lesbian, while others may experience compulsions related to checking their sexual orientation, such as repeatedly looking at pornography or having sex with a partner of the opposite sex to reassure themselves that they are not gay.
  • HOCD can be very distressing and can have a significant impact on a person’s life. People with HOCD may avoid social situations, relationships, and activities that they enjoy because they are worried about their intrusive thoughts.

Treatment for HOCD

The most effective treatment for HOCD is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of therapy that helps people to identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours. In CBT for HOCD, the therapist will help the person to understand their intrusive thoughts and compulsions, and to develop strategies for coping with them.

CBT for HOCD typically involves exposure and response prevention (ERP). ERP is a type of therapy that involves exposing people to their feared situations and preventing them from engaging in their compulsive behaviours. For example, a therapist might help a person with HOCD to gradually expose themselves to gay-related stimuli, such as gay people or gay pride parades, while preventing them from engaging in compulsions such as checking their sexual orientation.

Coping with HOCD

If you are struggling with HOCD, there are a few things you can do to cope:

  • Educate yourself about HOCD. The more you know about HOCD, the better equipped you will be to manage your symptoms.
  • Seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
  • Join a support group. Talking to other people who understand what you are going through can be very helpful.

Conclusion

HOCD is a real mental health condition that can cause significant distress and impairment. However, it is a very treatable condition. If you are struggling with HOCD, please know that you are not alone and that there is help available.

Additional information

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

Please remember that you are not alone and that there is help available. If you are struggling with HOCD, please reach out to a mental health professional for support.

Dr Elaine Ryan Psyhchologist and Founder of MoodSmith

Dr Elaine Ryan, PsychD, CPsychol, EuroPsy is a Chartered Psychologist specialising in OCD, intrusive thoughts and anxiety-related conditions. She has over 20 years’ clinical experience, including work in the NHS in the UK and in private practice.

Dr Ryan obtained her PsychD from the University of Surrey (UK) and is registered with the British Psychological Society (CPsychol), the UK Society for Behavioural Medicine, and EuroPsy. Her work has been featured on RTÉ Television, in the Wall Street Journal, the Irish Independent and Business Insider.

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